The claim “the Gülen Movement (Hizmet) is working to establish a political party” has been voiced by different individuals and circles time and again.

Yet, this superficial and baseless claim stems from the failure to grasp the minimum social dynamics required to make sense of Turkey’s political scene as well as the Gülen Movement, whose sole aim is to serve mankind. It is sad and surprising to see such claims parroted by certain people, who are incapable of understanding the sociological foundations of Turkey and the service-oriented Movement respected by many groups.

The Movement is determined to spend all its potential and energy to boost peace for mankind both in Turkey and in many countries around the globe, and it does not and never will have an agenda to establish a political party. The Gülen Movement always encourages volunteers to concentrate their energy on civilian projects that would build a culture of peaceful coexistence for humankind.

Considering the fact that similar claims pop up time and again , we believe it will be beneficial to stress certain points regarding Hizmet’s approach to politics.

1. It is impossible, both theoretically and in practical terms, for the Hizmet, consisting of volunteers from different political ideologies, to establish a political party directly or indirectly, or to be affiliated with any political party — which is another false, unfounded claim that is occasionally voiced.

2. Nurturing no goal other than serving mankind, the Hizmet recommends that the volunteers who are devoted to this goal should define their relationship with politics against certain values and principles, particularly including human rights, democracy, transparent and fair administration, pluralism, the rule of law, and freedom of faith and expression. Any political party that properly upholds these values is preferred.

3. On the other hand, it is legitimate and beneficial to the country for anyone to engage in politics. Therefore, it is quite natural for any individual who is inspired by Hizmet’s cultural basin to make a personal decision to pursue a political career. Hizmet’s principle of “not establishing any party and not being affiliated with any political party” should not be confused with certain individuals’ personal preferences to engage in active politics, even if they have links to the Community.

Source:

Journalists and Writers Foundation

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